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Journey information
Overview: Melbourne to Cairns flight
AustraliaAustralia
Flights from Melbourne to Cairns depart on average 22 times per day, taking around 3h 19m. Cheap flight tickets for this journey start at $141 (€114) if you book in advance.
There are 4 flights per day. The earliest flight runs at 19:15, the last at 19:15. The fastest flight covers the 1434 miles (2309 km) distance in 3h 15m. February is the cheapest month to fly.
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Distance 1434 miles (2309 km) |
Average flight duration 3h 19m |
Cheapest ticket price $141 (€114) |
Flights per day 22 |
Direct flights 4 |
Fastest flight 3h 15m |
First flight 19:15 |
Last flight 19:15 |
Cheapest month Feb |
Cheapest day Mon |
High season Jan - Mar |
Low season Jul - Sep |
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Travel Information
Compare train and flight for Melbourne to Cairns
Omio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from Melbourne to Cairns among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the flight with prices starting from $141. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 3h 19m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a flight costs an average of $141, and a train costs an average of $4137.
Distance: 1434 miles (2309 km)
Compare flight with
Most popular Flight | Train |
|---|---|
$205 Average price Cheapest | $4137 Average price |
6h 19m Average total duration Fastest 3h 19m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 69h 45m Average total duration 69h 15m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
Compare prices and tickets Melbourne to Cairns by train or flight
Compare train and flight prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.
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Why should you book Melbourne to Cairns flights with Omio?
Jetstar Airways operates all flights services from Melbourne to Cairns.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Melbourne to Cairns.
Why book with Omio vs Jetstar Airways?
- Designed for International Travelers: Omio is in your language including 24/7 customer service and offers multiple payment options, including PayPal, credit cards, and bank transfer, in your preferred currency.
- Compare all your options: Omio allows you to compare Jetstar Airways with all available travel options, which are train and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Melbourne to Cairns.
Why book with Omio over Kayak or Edreams?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and flight to find the ideal travel option from Melbourne to Cairns.
Airlines: Jetstar Airways from Melbourne to CairnsFind the best flights between Melbourne to Cairns with Omio's travel partners Jetstar Airways from $141 (€114). We can find you the best deals, schedules and tickets when comparing and booking the best trip.
Jetstar Airways
About
Jetstar Airways is an Australian low-cost airline headquartered in Melbourne and a wholly owned subsidiary of the Qantas Group. Established in 2003, it began domestic passenger services in May 2004 and expanded to international services in December 2005. Jetstar operates an extensive domestic and international network, serving over 75 destinations with more than 4,000 flights a week. The airline utilizes a fleet primarily consisting of Airbus A320 family aircraft and Boeing 787 Dreamliners. Jetstar is part of Qantas' two-brand strategy, positioning itself in the low-cost market while Qantas Airways focuses on the premium full-service market. The Jetstar Group also includes joint ventures like Jetstar Asia in Singapore and Jetstar Japan.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 15m
Cheapest Price
$141 (€114)
Luggage included
One carry-on bag (7kg) for Starter fares
Additional luggage
Up to 40kg additional checked baggage can be purchased
Cancellation Policy
Starter fares are non-refundable. FareCredit available for cancellations made within 24 hours of departure on higher fare types
Pregnant on board
Pregnant passengers can travel up to the end of the 32nd week. For multiple pregnancies, travel is permitted until the end of the 28th week. Medical clearance required after 28 weeks
Unaccompagned minor
Children aged 5-11 can travel unaccompanied on direct flights only. Service must be booked in advance and fees apply
Amenities on board the airplane
Food sold onboard
Accessibility
Jetstar provides assistance for passengers with disabilities, including wheelchair assistance and special seating arrangements
Pets
Pets are not allowed in the cabin or as checked baggage except for service animals
Entertaiment on board
FAQs: Melbourne to Cairns Flight
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Melbourne to Cairns by flight. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest flight, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Cairns, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap plane tickets from Melbourne to Cairns can start from as little as $141 (€114) when you book in advance. The average flight ticket price for Melbourne to Cairns is $205 (€166) ; however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
The average journey time by plane from Melbourne to Cairns is 3h 15m to travel the 1434 miles (2309 km) long route. Journey times can vary on weekends and holidays, so use our Journey Planner to search for a specific date.
The earliest flight from Melbourne to Cairns leaves at 7:15 PM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest flight from Melbourne to Cairns leaves at 7:15 PM.
Yes, there are 4 direct flights a day from Melbourne to Cairns with . Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct flights.
When taking a flight from Melbourne to Cairns, you can count on Jetstar Airways for the best way to get you to Cairns. You can also check all possible airlines who offer a service between Melbourne and Cairns and compare the amenities they offer before buying a plane ticket.
The cheapest month for a flight from Melbourne to Cairns is February.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Melbourne and Cairns including taking a train and flight.
Since neither Melbourne nor Cairns are in the Schengen Area, passport requirements depend on the specific immigration rules of Australia and Australia. Entry and visa requirements can be subject to change. For the latest information, check with your destination's embassy or consulate.
There is a time difference of 1 h between Melbourne and Cairns in winter.
The best events to attend in Cairns include:
- Cairns Indigenous Art Fair, a vibrant celebration of Indigenous art and culture featuring exhibitions, performances, and workshops
- Cairns Festival, an annual event showcasing local talent through music, art, and food over ten days
- Great Barrier Reef Festival, a community celebration highlighting the beauty of the reef with activities, entertainment, and environmental awareness.
The best holidays to experience in Cairns include:
- Easter, mild weather and vibrant local festivities
- Anzac Day, commemorative events and a strong sense of community
- School Holidays (June-July), ideal for family-friendly activities and outdoor adventures.
The best season to visit Cairns is Winter or Spring. The best weather to explore Cairns is during June-November.
For domestic flights we recommend to arrive 1.5 to 2 hours before departure. Please check the website of your departure airport if in doubt. Some airports may offer booking time slots for security checks or offer additional information on when to get there based on time of day.
Most airlines permit carry-on bags that fit within specific dimensions (e.g., 22 x 14 x 9 inches or 56 x 36 x 23 cm), including handles and wheels. Bags must fit in the overhead bin or under the seat in front of you.
Many airlines impose weight limits, commonly ranging between 7 kg (15 lbs) and 12 kg (26 lbs). Typically, passengers are allowed one carry-on bag and one personal item (for example a purse, laptop bag, or backpack). Personal items must fit under the seat in front of you. Budget Airlines (like Ryanair or Wizz Air) have stricter size and weight limits, often requiring fees for larger carry-ons. Full-Service Airlines have more lenient policies, sometimes including more spacious dimensions or higher weight limits depending on your ticket class.
The list of items prohibited on an airplane varies by country and airline, but in general, the following items are not allowed in carry-on or checked baggage: Weapons and self-defence items, sharp objects, flammable materials, explosives, toxic substances, or liquids over 100ml (except for medications and baby essentials). In checked baggage, firearms (without authorization), explosives, large lithium batteries, and hazardous chemicals are prohibited. Electronic cigarettes must be in carry-on bags, while alcohol and dry ice have restrictions. Always check with your airline for specific regulations.
popular airports
Popular airports from Melbourne to Cairns
Melbourne
Cairns
The major airport for departures in Melbourne is Melbourne. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Melbourne for your trip from Melbourne to Cairns.
Amenities at airport
Wifi
Shopping
Parking
Dining
ATM
Taxis
Accessibility
WC
Hotel
Shower
Lounge
Lost and Found Office
Car Rentalinformation
Distance to city center
6 km
Car connection
Tullamarine Freeway, Exit M2Wifi
- Free Wi-Fi available throughout the airport.
Shopping
- Shops available in terminal 2, including duty-free and fashion stores.
Parking
- Parking available at terminal Car Parks, approximately 3€ (AUD 5) per hour.
Dining
- Various restaurants in terminal 2, including Asian and Italian cuisines.
Taxis
- Available outside the terminal.
Accessibility
- Ramps, assistance
WC
- Available throughout the airport.
Hotel
- Hotels within walking distance, including ParkRoyal Melbourne Airport.
Shower
- Showers available in terminal 2, free of charge.
Lounge
- Lounges available in terminal 2, including Qantas and Virgin Australia lounges.
Lost and Found Office
- Lost and Found located in terminal 2, near the check-in area.
Car Rental
- Car rental services available in terminal 1, including Avis and Hertz.
Public transit options for Melbourne
- SkyBus, Melbourne City Express, 30 minutes to Southern Cross Station
The major airport for arrivals in Cairns is Cairns. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Cairns for your journey to Cairns from Melbourne.
Amenities at airport
WifiShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelShowerLoungeLost and Found OfficeCar Rentalinformation
Distance to city center
5 kmCar connection
Captain Cook Hwy, Sheridan St exitWifi
- Free Wi-Fi available throughout the airport.
Shopping
- Shops are available, including duty-free and souvenir shops in the intertiol terminal.
Parking
- Parking available, approximately 1.9€ ($2) per hour.
Dining
- Restaurants are located in both domestic and intertiol terminals, offering options like fast food and cafes.
Taxis
- Available outside the terminal.
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps
WC
- Available throughout the airport, including accessible facilities.
Hotel
- Hotels such as the Cairns Airport Hotel within walking distance.
Shower
- Showers are available in the intertiol terminal; usage may be free or require a small fee.
Lounge
- Lounges available, including the Qantas Club and Virgin Australia Lounge.
Lost and Found Office
- Lost and Found located at the airport information desk in the terminal.
Car Rental
- Car rental services are available from major providers like Avis, Hertz, and Budget.
Public transit options for Cairns
- Bus line 110, Cairns Airport stop, 7 km
Most popular flights to and from Cairns and Melbourne
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